Portable wheeled backpack

ABSTRACT

In one embodiment of the invention, a multiple mode portable wheeled backpack includes: a backpack section and an extended trailing section that is removably coupled to the backpack section, wherein the extended trailing section includes a plurality of wheels.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional application of U S. patent application,entitled “Multiple Mode Portable Wheeled Backpack”, having a filing dateof 28 Jun. 2012 and Ser. No. 13/537,041, which claims the benefit of anda priority to a United States Provisional Application having a filingdate of 28 Jun. 2011 and Ser. No. 61/502,122. Application Ser. Nos.13/537,041 and 61/502,122 are hereby fully incorporated herein byreference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the invention relate generally to a multiple modeportable wheeled backpack.

BACKGROUND

Backpacks are commonly used in outdoor activities such as, for example,camping, hiking, fishing and hunting, and/or other outdoor activities.Additionally, backpacks are used for other outdoor activities thatrelate to non-sporting activities such as, for example, army or militaryexercises or campaigns, scientific expeditions, and/or survivalistoutdoor exercises. However, conventional backpacks do not relieve stresson the back of the backpack user when heavy items are stored in thebackpack. As a result, backpacks that are filled with heavy items do nottypically permit the backpack user to go on longer and/or deeperexpeditions in the wilderness or remote areas.

Additionally, a backpack is very limited and/or disadvantageous forstoring items (e.g., game and/or fishes) that are obtained in certainoutdoor sporting activities such as, for example, hunting and/orfishing. Furthermore, in other outdoor activities such as, for example,camping, a backpack is unable to store many necessary items needed inthese outdoor activities. Therefore, conventional backpacks preventoutdoor sportsmen from going into deep expedition in the woods,wilderness, or remote areas because they are unable to haul sufficientresources in the backpacks.

Conventional backpacks are also not configurable for storing andcarrying large-size items. Therefore, a backpack user suffers from theinconvenience of being unable to conveniently transport large-sizeitems.

Based on the above discussion, the current technology is limited in itscapabilities and suffers from at least the above constraints anddeficiencies.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment of the invention, a multiple mode portable wheeledbackpack includes: a backpack section and an extended trailing sectionthat is removably coupled to the backpack section, wherein the extendedtrailing section includes a plurality of wheels.

In another embodiment of the invention, a multiple mode portable wheeledbackpack includes: means for a backpack section, and means for anextended trailing section that is removably coupled to the means for abackpack section, wherein the means for an extended trailing sectionincludes a plurality of wheels.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, a quick release couplerincludes various components to be discussed below in additional details.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, a method of assembling amultiple mode portable wheeled backpack includes: forming a backpacksection, forming an extended trailing section including attaching wheelsto the extended trailing section, and forming a plurality of couplerswherein the plurality of couplers are configured to removably couple theextended trailing section to the backpack section.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory onlyand are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate one (several) embodiment(s) ofthe invention and together with the description, serve to explain theprinciples of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the invention aredescribed with reference to the following figures, wherein likereference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various viewsunless otherwise specified. Additionally, the left-most digit of areference number may identify the drawing in which the reference numberfirst appears.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a multiple mode portable wheeled backpackconfigured in a first mode, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a multiple mode portable wheeled backpackconfigured in a second mode, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a multiple mode portable wheeled backpackalso configured in a second mode, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a multiple mode portable wheeled backpackconfigured in a third mode, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIGS. 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5d are block diagrams of a multiple mode portablewheeled backpack also configured in a third mode, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6a is a block diagram of a wheel assembly unit removably coupled tothe rear frame of trailing section, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 6b is a block diagram of a wheel assembly unit removably coupled tothe front frame which is adjacent to the front of trailing section, inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7a is a block diagram of a wheel assembly unit, in accordance withan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7b is a block diagram showing a top view of the bearing plate of awheel assembly unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7c is a block diagram showing a top view of the bearing plate of awheel assembly unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7d is a block diagram showing additional details of a bearingplate, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7e is a block diagram of a wheel and tire unit, in accordance withan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7f is a block diagram of a brake system, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7g is a block diagram of the quick release connector with thecables in FIG. 7f disconnected from each other, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7h is a block diagram of the quick release connector with thecables in FIG. 7f connected to each other, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e, 8f, 8g, 8h, and 8i are block diagrams ofvarious embodiments of quick couplers (quick release main joints) inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, and 9e are block diagrams of various embodimentsof shoulder straps in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a method for assembling a multiple modeportable wheeled backpack, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the description herein, numerous specific details are provided, suchas examples of components, materials, parts, structures, and/or methods,to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. Oneskilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that an embodimentof the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specificdetails, or with other apparatus, systems, methods, components,materials, parts, structures, and/or the like. In other instances,well-known components, materials, parts, structures, methods, oroperations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuringaspects of embodiments of the invention. Additionally, the figures arerepresentative in nature and their shapes are not intended to illustratethe precise shape or precise size of any element and are not intended tolimit the scope of the invention.

Those skilled in the art will understand that when an element or part inthe drawings is referred to as being “on” (or “connected” to or“coupled” to or “attached” to) another element, it can be directly on(or directly attached to) the other element or intervening elements mayalso be present. Furthermore, relative terms such as “inner”, “outer”,“upper”, “above”, “lower”, “beneath”, “below”, “downward”, and “upward”and similar terms, may be used herein to describe a relationship of oneelement relative to another element. It is understood that these termsare intended to encompass different orientations of the device inaddition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

Although the terms first, second, and the like may be used herein todescribe various elements, components, parts, regions, layers, chambers,and/or sections, these elements, components, parts, regions, layers,chambers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. Theseterms are only used to distinguish one element, component, part, region,layer, chamber, or section from another element, component, part,region, layer, chamber, or section. Thus, a first element, component,part, region, layer, chamber, or section discussed below could be termeda second element, component, part, region, layer, chamber, or sectionwithout departing from the teachings of the present invention.

Embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference tocross-sectional view illustrations (or transparent view illustrations)that are schematic illustrations of representative embodiments of theinvention. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as aresult of, for example, manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances areexpected. Embodiments of the invention should not be construed aslimited to the particular shapes of the regions, elements, components,parts, layers, chambers, and/or sections illustrated herein but are toinclude deviations in shapes that result, for example, frommanufacturing or particular implementations. For example, an elementillustrated or described as square or rectangular may typically haverounded or curved features due to normal manufacturing tolerances or dueto a particular implementation. Thus, the elements illustrated in thefigures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended toillustrate the precise shape of an element of a device and are notintended to limit the scope of the invention.

Based on the discussion of the embodiments of the invention as presentedherein, those skilled in the art will realize that the positions and/orconfigurations of the components in the drawings can be varied indifferent sizes, different shapes, different positions, and/or differentconfigurations. Therefore, various components shown in the drawings canbe placed in other positions that differ from the configuration as shownin the drawings. The components in the drawings are illustrated innon-limiting example positions for purposes of explaining thefunctionalities of the embodiments of the invention, and thesecomponents in the drawings can be configured into other examplepositions.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a multiple mode portable wheeled backpack100 configured in a first mode (the “backpack mode”, “backpack trailingmode”, or “dragging mode”), in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. The multiple mode portable wheeled backpack 100 can beconfigured in a plurality of modes by use of modular components that canbe varied, adjusted, and/or coupled together, as will be discussedbelow. For example, the multiple mode portable wheeled backpack 100 canbe configured in the first mode (which is a backpack mode (i.e.,backpack trailing mode) with a backpack section 105 and an extendedtrailing section 110 removably coupled to the backpack section 105, asshown in FIG. 1), or in a second mode (the “passenger mode” or “scootermode” as shown in FIG. 2) in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. As another example, the portable wheeled backpack 100 can beconfigured in a third mode (the “motorized mode” or “scooter mode” asshown in FIG. 4) where the portable wheeled backpack 100 hasmotorized-capability, scooter-capability, or motor-powered capability aswill be discussed below in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

As an example, the portable wheeled backpack 100 is a multiplatform andmodular utility device that can haul, for example, at least or over 100pounds of cargo. Therefore, the portable wheeled backpack 100 provides arevolutionary system that extends and enhances the outdoor adventure andallows avid outdoorsmen and women, hunters, survivalists, militarypersonnel, and/or other individuals to go further on outdoor expeditionsand engage in the expeditions for a longer time period. Additionally,the portable wheeled backpack 100 advantageously relieves the weight onthe back and shoulders of the users and advantageously relievesstrenuous pressure of heavy weight items to be hauled. The backpack 100can also advantageously glide smoothly along paths no matter how extremethe off-road adventure may be for a user of the backpack 100.

The backpack 100 advantageously provides a flexible and durable systemthat can haul various essential items such as, for example, a tent, campchair, lantern, cooler, water containers, sleeping bags, tools, cargocontainers, and/or other items. With continuing reference to FIG. 1, themultiple mode portable wheeled backpack 100 includes the two modularcomponents which are the backpack section 105 and the extended trailingsection 110. The extended trailing section 110 is removably coupled tothe backpack section 105 by a plurality of couplers 115. Two componentsare removably coupled (or removably attached or removably secured) meansthat two different components can be attached together or detachedapart. Therefore, the couplers 115 permit the backpack section 105 andthe extended trailing section 110 to be coupled together and to beseparated apart.

In an embodiment of the invention, the number of the couplers 115 mayvary. In an exemplary multiple mode portable wheeled backpack 100 shownin FIG. 1, the couplers 115 are shown as the couplers 115 a, 115 b, and115 c. The coupler 115 c is not used in the first mode (i.e., the“backpack mode”) but is used in the second mode (i.e., the “passengermode”) and in the third mode (i.e., the “scooter mode”). The couplers115 may be quick connectors that permit the user to rapidly transformthe portable wheeled backpack 100 from one mode to another mode in aconvenient and flexible manner. Various examples of suitable couplers115 will be discussed below.

In contrast, conventional backpacks do not provide any features thatpermit the backpacks to be modular and/or to be transformed in otherconfigurations or modes in a convenient and flexible manner.

In one embodiment, the backpack section 105 includes a first verticalframe member 120 a and a second vertical frame member 120 b. The members120 a and 120 b are at least substantially parallel to each other andmay typically be connected by a top frame member 122 which is betweenthe members 120 a and 120 b. A third frame member 120 c (horizontalbottom member 120 c) is typically disposed between and connected to themembers 120 a and 120 b and is opposite of the top frame member 122. Thethird frame member 120 is at the bottom portion of the backpack section105 and near the extended trailing section 110. The top frame member 122is at the top portion of the backpack section 105 and is farther fromthe extended trailing section 110. An extension member 125 is coupled tothe third frame member 120 c and to the coupler 115 c.

The first shoulder strap 130 a and the second shoulder strap 130 b canbe removably coupled to the first frame member 120 a and the secondframe member 120 b, respectively. As will also be discussed below, thestraps 130 a and 130 b can be varied in configuration. For example, thestraps 130 a and 130 b can be wider in size (or can be vest-shapedstraps) in order to ease the stress applied by the straps 130 a and 130b to the shoulder of the user of the portable wheeled backpack 100.

In an embodiment, a first strap connector 135 a and a second strapconnector 135 b are coupled to the first frame 120 a and the secondframe 120 b, respectively. The straps 130 a and 130 b are coupled to apad 140 which is coupled to both of the frames 120 a and 120 b. Thestraps 130 a and 130 b are then coupled to the first strap connector 135a and second strap connector 135 b, respectively. The user of themultiple mode portable wheeled backpack 100 can insert her/his armsthrough the straps 135 a and 135 b and mount these straps on his/hershoulders for backpacking and can, therefore, mount the backpack section105 on his/her back and shoulder in the same manner as a conventionalbackpack.

Additionally or optionally, a belt strap 138 may be coupled to theframes 120 a and 120 b. This belt strap 138 is wrapped around the waistarea of a user of the portable wheeled backpack 100.

A cargo pack 142 can be coupled to the backpack section 105.Specifically, the cargo pack 142 can be coupled to the frame members 120a and 120 b and can function as a backpack cargo area for storingsuitable items. The size of a cargo pack 142 may vary and is typicallythe same size as any sizes of any cargo pack of a conventional backpack.When the user removes and separates the extended trailing section 110from the backpack section 105 by removing the extended trailing section110 from the couplers 115 a and 115 b, the user can wear or carry thebackpack section 105 in the same manner as a conventional backpack.Therefore, an embodiment of the multiple mode portable wheeled backpack100 has the flexibility of being quickly transformed into a conventionalbackpack and being quickly transformed into the backpack mode of FIG. 1,or into the passenger mode of FIG. 2 or the scooter mode of FIG. 4.

The cargo pack 142 can be, for example, formed from a nylon typematerial and may have multiple separate components. Additionally, arolled sleeping bag 143 may also be mounted on the backpack section 105by use of suitable connectors, hooks, chords, or other couplingmechanisms.

In an embodiment of the invention, the extended trailing section 110includes the first frame member 145 a and the second frame member 145 bwhich is at least substantially parallel to the first frame member 145a. The members 145 a and 145 b are removably coupled to and can beseparated from the couplers 115 a and 115 b, respectively. Therefore,the extended trailing section 110 can be removably coupled to thebackpack section 105 by removably coupling the members 145 a and 145 bto the couplers 115 a and 115 b, respectively. The extended trailingsection 110 can be separated from the backpack section 105 by separatingthe members 145 a and 145 b from the couplers 115 a and 115 b,respectively.

In an embodiment, the extended trailing section 110 (i.e., extendedtrailing unit 110) includes a front frame member 146 between the members145 a and 145 b, and a rear frame member 148 between the members 145 aand 145 b. The front frame member 146 is near the couplers 115 a and 115b and is located opposite from the rear frame member 148 of the trailingsection 110.

In an embodiment, the extended trailing section 110 also includes acargo floor 150 on which items can be placed. The cargo floor 150 isbetween the frame members 145 a and 145 b.

In an embodiment, the extended trailing section 110 also includes therear primary wheel 156 which is coupled to the rear frame member 148(and/or is adjacent to the rear frame member 148 and is otherwisecoupled to a suitable part of the extended trailing section 110). Thewheel 156 can turn or steer in either rotational directions 161 withrespect to the vertical y-axis. Therefore, when the user straps on thebackpack section 105 via the straps 130 a and 130 b and/or belt 138, therear primary wheel 156 permits the user to also drag the extendedtrailing section 110 that is removably coupled to the backpack section105. As a result, the user can place extra items or heavy items on thefloor 150 while also placing other items in the backpack cargo area 142and the user can conveniently transport all of these items by strappingon the backpack section 105 on his/her back in the same manner as aconventional backpack and dragging the movable extended trailing section110. In contrast, the trailing section 110 also includes the rightauxiliary wheel 152 a and left auxiliary wheel 152 b which are coupledto the right frame 145 a and left frame 145 b, respectively. In thebackpack trailing mode, only the main rear wheel 156 is contacting theground as the user is dragging the trailing section 110. Also, in thebackpack trailing mode, the wheels 152 a and 152 b would only assist thetrailing section 110 when this section is, for example, travelling overan obstructing object on the ground such as a log or another object. Inthe scooter mode as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5 a through 5 d, thewheels 152 a and 152 b are contacting the ground and allow the trailingsection 110 to travel on the ground because the trailing section 110 isnot substantially slanted with respect to a horizontal ground or is nota substantial angle with respect to the horizontal ground and becausethe brake assembly 155 (with the wheel 156) is moved to the front of thetrailing section 110 and is coupled to the coupler 115 c (FIG. 1).

In an embodiment of the invention, a detachable steering and brakeassembly 155 (i.e., wheel and brake assembly unit 155) can be removablycoupled to various locations in the multiple mode portable wheeledbackpack 100. In the backpack mode shown in FIG. 1, the assembly 155 isremovably coupled to the coupler 115 e which is, in turn, coupled to therear frame member 148. The assembly 155 includes a wheel 156 and acomponent 158. For example, the component 158 is a vertically protrudingspline stud shaft 731 out of the top portion 726 of the wheel assembly155, and the component 158 can also removably lock into place on theunit 115 e which would basically be the mounting plate that is fixed tothe rear mounting bar 148 (i.e., rear unit bar 148). The unit 115 epermits the assembly 155 to pivot and to be steered by the user invarious directions. The unit 115 e is similar to a turn table on atrackhoe which is the waist part, and the component 158 would protrudethrough a mounting hole on the unit 115 e and latch or lock onto thespline shaft. When the component 158 and unit 115 e are separated fromeach other, the unit 115 e stays connected to the rear mounting bar 148because the unit 115 e is typically permanently connected to the rear ofthe trailing section 110 at the rear unit bar 148 and the component 158would instead be relocated and removably connected adjacent to the front146 of the trailing section 110 in the scooter mode (i.e., the component158 (along with the rest of the assembly 155) would be removablyconnected to the part 125 in the scooter mode). FIG. 2 shows thecomponent 158 and assembly 155 as being removably connected to the part125 during the scooter mode.

As a further example, the component 125 would be removably coupled tothe bottom frame 123 by a coupler 115 f (i.e., a connecting shaft 115 f)so that the user can separate the component 125 from the bottom frame123, so that the component 125 does not protrude far verticallydownward, and so that the component does not hit the back of the userduring the backpack trailing mode. The bottom frame 123 is between thevertical members 120 a and 120 b and is opposite to the top frame 122.The component 125 can, for example, be stored in a storage box 204(along with other components such as, for example, the handle bar 220,member 224, and brake lever 230 that each can also be stored in thestorage box 204) during the backpack trailing mode.

In the backpack trailing mode shown in FIG. 1, as similarly discussedabove, the wheel 156 is in contact with the ground and the wheels 152 aand 152 a are not in contact with the ground because the wheels 152 aand 152 b are vertically above the wheel 156. Therefore, the wheel 156is rotating and in contact with the ground when the user drags theextended trailing section 110 and the wheels 152 a and 152 b are not incontact with the ground. In the backpack trailing mode, since the wheels152 a and 152 do not touch a horizontal ground, the assembly 155provides the main steering function and pivoting function for thetrailing section 110 and provides (via the wheel 156) the brakingfunction for the trailing section 110.

In an embodiment of the invention, the assembly 155 also includes abraking capability that can be controlled by the user by use of the handbrake-controller 160 (extended trailing section hand brake 160) andhandle 162, and the controller 160 is mechanically coupled to andcontrols a brake wire 164. Therefore, the extended trailing section handbrake 160 (and extended trailing section hand grip 162) is coupled tothe extended trailing section 110. This brake wire 164 is coupled to andcontrols the braking pressure on the brake mechanism in the assembly155, and this brake mechanism can stop or slow down the rotation of thewheel 156.

The controller 160 and handle 162 may, for example, be similar to thehand brake-controller and handle in a conventional bicycle handle.However, the controller 160 and handle 162 may be configured in othersuitable manners. The brake wire 164 is mechanically coupled to a brakemechanism in the assembly 155 and provides the braking pressure thatcauses the brake mechanism to apply a brake pressure on the wheel 156and to stop the rotation of the wheel 156 when the user presses the handbrake-controller 160.

In the first mode (i.e., backpack trailing mode”), the handle 162 andcouplers 115 a and 115 b are near or at least nearly adjacent to thewaste of the user. Therefore, when the backpack section 105 is mountedon the back of the user, the user will be able to conveniently reach andhold the handle 162 with his/her right arm (in an exemplary embodimentof the portable wheeled backpack 100 shown in FIG. 1) and easily pressthe brake controller 160. Therefore, when the user straps on thebackpack section 105 on his/her shoulders or top body area (via theshoulder straps 130 a and 130 b and/or belt 138), the user can grab thecontroller 160 and handle 162 and press the controller 160 so that thecontroller 160 will apply a braking pressure on the wheel 156 and willcause the wheel 156 to stop rotating due to the braking pressure. Sincethe wheel 156 will stop rotating, the stationary wheel 156 provides thebraking function of the extended trailing section 110. As will bediscussed below, the assembly 155 can be separated from (and detachedfrom) the coupler 115 e and can be attached to the coupler 115 c duringthe passenger mode and/or during the scooter mode.

In an embodiment of the invention, the various components in themultiple mode portable wheeled backpack 100 may be formed by anysuitable rigid material or semi-rigid material such as, by way ofexample and not by way of limitation, metal or light-weight alloys(e.g., aluminum and/or titanium), plastic, and/or another suitablesynthetic material and/or a combination of at least some of thesematerials that form various components in the backpack section 105 andextended trailing section 110 of the portable wheeled backpack 100. Thematerials of the cargo pack 142, straps 130 a and 130 b, and/or belt 138may be formed by flexible material such as, for example, nylon or othersuitable synthetic materials. The cargo back 142 can also be formed bymore rigid materials such as, for example, light-weight plastic or othersuitable synthetic materials.

The components in the portable wheeled backpack 100 may be manufacturedby standard manufacturing methods known to those skilled in the relevantart(s) such as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, molding,stamping, casting, standard attachments and assembly of individualcomponents, and/or other standard shaping processes of durablematerials.

Those skilled in the art will realize, after reading the discussionherein, that other suitable materials or combination of suitablematerials can be used for the components in the multiple mode portablewheeled backpack 100. Those skilled in the art will also realize, afterreading the discussion herein, that the assembly, manufacture, and/orconstruction of the components of the portable wheeled backpack 100 maybe selectively varied based on cost, ease of manufacturing, or/and otherconsiderations. Additionally, the parts or components in the portablewheeled backpack 100 can be suitably varied or substituted with otherparts or components or shapes, as manufacturing and parts technologiesimprove in the future.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a multiple mode portable wheeled backpack100 configured in a second mode (the “passenger mode”), in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment the invention, theportable wheeled backpack 100 may optionally (or additionally) includeat least one foot peg 201. In the passenger mode, the user of theportable wheeled backpack 100 would place his/her foot on the foot peg201 and use his/her other foot to push the ground so that the user canmove the portable wheeled backpack 100 as if he/she is riding askateboard or similar moving assembly. Although the foot pegs 201 areshown as single piece shoe-sized platforms in FIG. 2, the foot pegs 201can have other shapes such as, by way of example and not by way oflimitation, longer-length platforms, or platforms that extend away fromthe frames 145 a and 145 b, or other shaped platforms.

The user can place (or removably couple) various items on the floor 110such as, for example, the optional cargo box 204, optional watercontainer 207, and/or other items. Additionally or optionally, the usercan also removably couple a backpack cargo container 142 (FIG. 1) orother items (e.g., the cargo box 204) to the rear surface 205 of thebackpack section 105, where the rear surface 205 is opposite to thefront surface 206 of the backpack section 105. The shoulder straps 130 aand 130 b and belt 138 are removably coupled to the front surface 206.

In the passenger mode, the detachable steering and brake assembly 155 isremovably coupled to the coupler 115 c which is coupled near thebackpack section 105. Therefore, the wheel 155 is in the front 210 ofthe portable wheeled backpack 100 and is opposite to the wheels 152 aand 152 b. Therefore, in the passenger mode, the portable wheeledbackpack 100 will have the wheel 155 in the front 210 and the wheels 152a and 152 b in the rear 215 of the portable wheeled backpack 100. Theportable wheeled backpack 100 will have the front wheel 156 and the rearwheels 152 a and 152 b to permit the portable wheeled backpack 100 tohave passenger movements on the ground when the portable wheeledbackpack 100 is configured in the passenger mode.

In the passenger mode, a steering handle 220 includes the grips 222 aand 222 b. The steering handle 220 includes a vertical member 224 thatis removably coupled to the connector 115 d. The user can steer thehandle 220 in the rotational direction 225 with respect to the verticaly-axis or steer the handle 220 in the rotational direction 226 withrespect to the y-axis. The rotational direction 225 is opposite to therotational direction 226 with respect to the y-axis.

When the handle 220 is removably coupled to the connector 115 d, thehandle 220 is mechanically coupled to the assembly 155 so that thesteering the handle 220 moving in the direction 225 will also move theassembly 155 in the direction 225, and the steering the handle 220moving in the direction 226 will also move the assembly 155 in thedirection 226. Therefore, the handle 220 permits the user to steer theassembly 155 and guide the direction of the portable wheeled backpack100 in the passenger mode. Therefore, the backpack section steeringhandle is configured to steer the assembly 155.

In an embodiment, the handle 220 includes a handbrake controller 230(backpack section hand brake 230) and a brake wire 232 mechanicallycoupled to and connected to the controller 230. Therefore, the backpacksection hand brake 230 (and the backpack section steering handle 220)are removably coupled to the backpack section 105. The brake wire 232 ismechanically coupled, via brake wire 233, to a brake mechanism in theassembly 155 and will cause the braking mechanism to apply the brakingpressure that causes the wheel 156 to brake and stop rotating when theuser presses the hand brake-controller 230. In the passenger mode, thehand brake controller 160 is disconnected from the steering and brakeassembly 155 and is, therefore, non-operating in the passenger mode.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a multiple mode portable wheeled backpack100 also configured in a second mode, in accordance with an embodimentof the invention. The backpack 100 provides removably coupled modularcomponents that provide additional flexible configurations for the user.For example, the connection of the backpack section 105 to the extendedtrailing section 110 in FIG. 3 is reversed in configuration whencompared to the connection of the backpack section 105 to the extendedtrailing section 110 in FIG. 2. Therefore, in FIG. 3, the frame 120 a isremovably coupled by the coupler 115 a to the frame 145 b and the frame120 b is removably coupled by the coupler 115 b to the frame 145 a. Incontrast, in FIG. 2, the frame 120 a is removably coupled by the coupler115 a to the frame 145 a and the frame 120 b is removably coupled by thecoupler 115 b to the frame 145 b. In FIG. 3, the section 205 faces awayfrom the extended trailing section 110 and the section 206 faces towardthe extended trailing section 110. In the configuration shown in FIG. 3,the cargo pack 142, cargo box (e.g., tool box) 204, and sleeping back143 are removably coupled to the surface 205 and are, therefore, facingaway from the extended trailing section 110 and from the user who is onthe extended trailing section 110 in the passenger mode.

As also shown in FIG. 3, the user can steer the rotation or movement ofthe handle 220. When the user steers the handle 220 in the rotationaldirection 305 with respect to the y-axis, the assembly 115 will alsosteer in the direction 305 in response to steering the handle 220 in thedirection 305. When the user steers the handle 220 in the rotationaldirection 310 with respect to the y-axis, the assembly 115 will alsosteer in the direction 310 in response to steering the handle 220 in thedirection 310. The direction 310 is rotationally directionally oppositeto the direction 305.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a multiple mode portable wheeled backpack100 configured in a third mode, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. The water container 207 is mounted on the surface 150 of theextendable trailing section 110. An accessory box 405 (or tool box 405)may also be mounted on the surface 150 of the extendable trailingsection 110. The items (e.g., container 207 and/or box 405) may beremovably secured on the surface 150 by use of loops, ratchet strapswhich are attached through eyelets on the surface 150 or frames 145 aand 145 b, and/or other attachment mechanisms.

In the third mode (i.e., the motorized mode or scooter mode), an engine410 is removably coupled to the extended trailing section 110. Theengine 410 provides powered operation for rotating one of the wheels(e.g., wheel 152 b) so that the wheeled backpack 100 moves by motorpower from the engine 410. The engine 410 can be a separate engine kitthat is commercially available from various vendors.

FIGS. 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5d are block diagrams of a multiple mode portablewheeled backpack 100 also configured in a third mode, in accordance withan embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment, the engine 410 is inan engine packaging 505 that can be mounted on a mounting plate 510 thatis removably attached (or removably clamped) on an upper frame tubing515 of the extended trailing section 110. Alternatively, the mountingplate can be removably attached to the frame 145 b or may be removablyattached in a suitable manner on a part of the extended trailing section110.

The engine 410 can rotate the wheel 152 b by rotating the belt 520 whichmay be a V-belt. As seen on FIGS. 5c and 5d , the engine 410 rotates theengine pulley 525 which moves the belt 520. The V-belt 520 is attachedto the wheel pulley 526 of the wheel 152 b and rotates the wheel 152 b.A stomp metal 530 can be pressed down in order to slide the engine 410forward to take out any slack out of the belt 520 and cause the engine410 to drive the wheel 152 b. The belt 420 may be a suitable v-beltavailable from an automotive store. Since the mounting plate 510 canslide forward or backward on the frame tubing 515 before the mountingplate 510 is clamped on the frame tubing 515, different sizes of thebelt 420 may be used with the motor 410. The engine pulley 525 issmaller than the wheel pulley 526 which is attached to the wheel 152 b.Therefore, the sizes of the pulleys 525 and 526 provide an acceptable orgood gear ratio for the small engine to have plenty of leverage andpulling power. The engine 410 is not required to move the portablebackpack 100 at a fast speed.

The basic operating procedure and attachment procedure of the motor 410are, for example, according to the following. The belt 520 is placed onthe wheel pulley 526 and motor pulley 525. The engine mounting plate 510is clamped on the frame tubing 515. A throttle cable assembly can beremovably mounted on the handle bar 220. For example, the throttle cablecan be controlled by a small lever that can be pushed by a thumb. Theengine 410 can be started and a clutch is not needed for the engine 410.The user can step on the foot stomp pad 530 to remove the slack from thebelt 520 and hit the level to lever to control the throttle.

FIG. 6a is a block diagram of a wheel assembly unit 155 removablycoupled to the rear frame 148 of trailing section 110, in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. The details of an embodiment of theunit 155 will be discussed below.

FIG. 6b is a block diagram of a wheel assembly unit 155 removablycoupled to the front frame 125 which is adjacent to the front 146 oftrailing section 110, in accordance with another embodiment of theinvention. Therefore, the unit 155 can be removably coupled to adjacentto the front 146 during the scooter mode and removably coupled to therear frame 148 during the backpack trailing mode.

FIG. 7a is a block diagram of a wheel and brake assembly unit 155, inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention. The unit 155 includes ahousing 700 which can be a rigid material such as, for example, metal, ametal alloy(s), or another suitable material known to those skilled inthe relevant art(s). The unit 155 also includes a wheel 705 (e.g., tire705) with a built in brake rotor 710. In another embodiment, the unit155 can instead have two wheels (not shown) that are side-by-sideinstead of the single wheel 705. The two outer edges of the wheel rim715 are typically casts a certain way so that the edges become therotor, or the wheel 705 has mounting points on the wheel 705 so that therotor brake plating surface 710 is bolted or otherwise attached to thewheel 705. The wheel 705 is inserted between the sides 720 a and 720 bof the housing 700 with an axle rod 725 disposed through the diametercenter of the wheel 705.

The housing 700 preferably supports the weight that is distributed bythe trailing section 110 and any object and user weight on the trailingsection 110. On the top surface 726 of the housing 700 is a restingplate 728 where a bearing plate (not shown in FIG. 7a ) will ride orwill be placed on. In the top center 730 of the housing is a splineshaft 731 having a recessed section 732 that is removably coupled to aquick connector during the backpack trailing mode or during the scootermode. An internal brake system 735 of the unit 155 is seen in theopening 737.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 7b and 7c . FIG. 7b is a block diagramshowing a top view of the bearing plate 734 of the wheel assembly unit155, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In contrast,FIG. 7c is a block diagram showing a top view of the bearing plate 734of the wheel assembly unit 155, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. In an embodiment of the invention, the bearing plate 734 isdisposed on the plate 728 on the top housing surface 728.

FIG. 7d is a block diagram showing additional details of a bearing plate734, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The bearingplate 734 is shown as separated from the resting plate 728. The uppersection 735 is fixed to the rear frame 148 (FIG. 1) of the trailingsection 110, and the lower section 736 pivoting with respect to theupper section 735 along the ball bearings 737 between the sections 735and 736. In an embodiment, the lower section 736 includes mountingpoints (not shown in FIG. 7d ) for cables used for braking ability andfor steering ability. Through the centers of the sections 735 and 736 isa hole 738, and the spline shaft 731 is inserted through the hole 738and is connected to a quick release connector.

FIG. 7e is a block diagram of a wheel and tire unit 740, in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. The housing 700 is shown inwireframe format for purposes of ease of discussion of the unit 740. Thedisc 710 on the edge of the tire 705 is the brake rotor 710, and theaxle shaft 725 runs through the center of the wheel 741 and out thesides 742 of the housing 700.

FIG. 7f is a block diagram of a brake system 735, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. In an embodiment, the brake system 735includes a master cylinder 745 that sends a hydraulic pressure 746 (viahydraulic fluid) to the brake pads 747 a and 747 b to activate the brakesystem 735 and permit the pads 747 a and 747 b to apply the brakepressure to the brake rotors 710. The braking operation of the brakingsystem 735 is similar in operation as standard hydraulic brakingsystems.

A reservoir 751 is on top of the master cylinder 745. A cylinder top 748(or lid 748) is on the reservoir 751. The cylinder top 748 is adjacentto the top inner surface 749 of the housing 700. The top inner surface749 (FIG. 7a ) is opposite to the top outer surface 726. The brake slavecylinders 750 a and 750 b are coupled to the master cylinder 745 and arecoupled to the brake pads 747 a and 747 b, respectively. Therefore, theslave cylinders 750 a and 750 b are T brake lines 750 a and 750 b.

The ram 752 (or plunger 752) is coupled to the master cylinder 745 andis depressed (or otherwise moved or actuated) so that the ram 752 isdepressed from the master cylinder 745 to provide the hydraulic pressureto actuate the brake system 735 and permit the brake pads 747 a and 747b to apply braking pressure to the brake rotors 710.

The leverage bar 754 presses or otherwise moves the ram 752 to actuatethe hydraulic pressure to actuate the brake system 735. The centersection 755 of the leverage bar 754 is mounted to the pivoting post 756,and an end 758 of the bar 754 is connected to a cable 760 that can beremovably connected to a quick release connector 762. In turn, the quickrelease connector 762 is connected to a cable 764 that runs to a brakeactuator that the user can actuate or press in the same manner as abicycle brake handle so that the user can actuate the brake system 735to provide the above discussed braking pressure.

As an example, when the unit 155 is connected to the rear frame 148 inthe backpack trailing mode as shown in FIG. 1, the cable 764 would be acable running from the extended trailing section hand brake 160.Therefore, when the user connects the cable 760 to the cable 764 via thequick release connector 762, the user can press (actuate) the hand brake160 so that the brake system 735 is actuated and the brake pads 747 aand 747 b apply the braking pressure to the brake rotor 710. The quickrelease connector 762 may be similar to the quick release connectors 115a through 115 e as discussed herein.

As an example, when the unit 155 is connected to the rear frame 148 inthe backpack trailing mode as shown in FIG. 1, the cable 764 would be acable running from the extended trailing section hand brake 160.Therefore, when the user connects the cable 760 to the cable 764 via thequick release connector 762, the user can press (actuate) the hand brake160 so that the brake system 735 is actuated and the brake pads 747 aand 747 b apply the braking pressure to the brake rotor 710. The quickrelease connector 762 may be similar to the quick release connectors 115a through 115 e as discussed herein, but this is not a requirement forthe connector 762 (quick connect brake cable joint 762).

As an example, when the unit 155 is connected to the extension frame 125in the front of the trailing section 110 in the scooter mode as shown inFIG. 2, the cable 764 would be a cable running from the brake lever 230of the handle bar 220. Therefore, when the user connects the cable 760to the cable 764 via the quick release connector 762, the user can press(actuate) the brake lever 230 so that the brake system 735 is actuatedand the brake pads 747 a and 747 b apply the braking pressure to thebrake rotor 710.

The leverage bar 754 provides a kind of teeter-toter action around thepivoting post 756. The pull from the cable 760 on the one end 758 of theleverage bar 754 in turn pushes in the brake plunger 752 on the oppositeend 765 (opposite of end 758) into the master cylinder 745.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 7g and 7h . FIG. 7g is a block diagram ofthe quick release connector with the cables in FIG. 7f disconnected fromeach other, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Incontrast, FIG. 7h is a block diagram of the quick release connector withthe cables in FIG. 7f connected to each other, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. Since the unit 155 is designed to bequickly removed (detached) and relocated between the rear and front ofthe trailing section 110, the quick connect brake cable joint 762 isable to attach a brake cable for use and for quick removal when notneeded. Similar joints may be used in other suitable parts of theapparatus 100. In an embodiment, the main cable attachment body would beattached to the main housing. The cable attachment body holds the cablesheaths in line so that the cable can perform its function. There is ashort section 760 of cable that connects to the leverage bar 754 and theother end has a metal cylinder (or ball) that is common with cablingelements and that is bigger around (or in diameter) to provide a catch.The other end, which is the removable part, has a cable end that loopsor slips over the opposing end. The end of this cable sheath would alsohave a little catch plate that may just press and snap into position onthe cable attachment body and maintain the connection.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e, 8f, 8g, 8h, and 8iwhich are block diagrams of various embodiments of quick couplers 115(quick release main joints 115), in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. A coupler 115 is preferably made of a heavy duty materialsuch as, by way of example and not by way of limitation, titanium oranother heavy duty material.

A quick coupler 115 (e.g., coupler 115 a) includes an outer shell 805which the user would grip and twist in the direction 810 (with respectto the Y-axis) in order to release a beveled lower shaft 815 from thecatches 820. The coupler 115 is coupled to, for example, the frame 120a. In the drawings, four catches 820 a, 820 b, 820 c, and 820 d areshown. However, the number of catches 820 may vary.

As shown in FIG. 8i , the exemplary quick couplers 115 a and 115 bremovably couple the upper section 105 to the lower section 110(extended trailing section 110) of the apparatus 100, in one embodimentof the invention. The first coupler 115 a removably connects the firstupper frame 120 a of the upper section 105 to the first lower frame 145a of the lower section 110, while the second coupler 115 b removablyconnects the second upper frame 120 b of the upper section 105 to thesecond lower frame 145 b of the lower section 110.

FIG. 8b shows a lower shaft 815 (which is, e.g., connected to a framesuch as, for example, frames 145 a or 145 b) removably connected to acoupler 115. In contrast, FIG. 8c shows the coupler 115 that is notremovably connected to a frame. FIG. 8e shows the coupler 115 as seenfrom the top of the outer shell 805 without any shafts 815 connected tothe coupler 115.

To connect a shaft 815 to the coupler 115, a beveled top portion 825(FIG. 8f ) is inserted through the bottom 826 of the coupler 115. Thebeveled top portion 825 is inserted between and within the catches 820 athrough 820 d. The catches 820 a through 820 d will push back to theinner wall 828 of the coupler 115 because the catches 820 are movabledue to the springs 830 that connect the catches 820 to the inner wall828. For example, FIG. 8c shows the spring 830 b connecting the catch820 b to the inner wall 828 and the spring 830 d connecting the catch820 d to the inner wall 828. FIG. 8g shows the spring 830 a connectingthe catch 820 a to the inner wall 828. The beveled shape 835 (FIG. 8g )of the portion 825 will insert through the catches 820, and the catches820 will lock into the indentation 840 (groove 840) between the topportion 825 and lower portion 842 of the shaft 815. As a result, theshaft 815 is securely locked with the coupler 115. It is noted that FIG.8g shows the outer shell 805 in wireframe format for ease of discussion.

To disconnect the shaft 815 from the coupler 115, the user turns ortwists the housing 805 in the direction 810 with respect to the Y axis(FIG. 8a ). This rotation direction 810 will cause the L-shaped members850 to also rotate in the rotation direction. The L-shape members arecoupled to the inner wall 855 (FIG. 8a ) of the outer shell 805. Thenumber of L-shaped members 850 a may vary. In the example of FIG. 8c ,the L-shaped members 850 a, 850 b, 850 c, and 850 d are shown. When theL-shaped members 850 are rotated in the rotation direction 810, theL-shaped members 850 a, 850 b, 850 c, and 850 d will latch with or comeinto contact with the rollers 860 a, 860 b, 860 c, and 860 d,respectively. The rollers 860 a, 860 b, 860 c, and 860 d are coupled tothe catches 820 a, 820 b, 820 c, and 820 d, respectively. When theL-shaped members 850 latches to the rollers 860, the L-shaped members850 will push back the catches 820 against the inner wall 828 andagainst the force of the springs 830. As a result, the catches 820 willbe removed from the groove 840 and the user will be able to disconnectthe shaft 815 from the quick release coupler 115 (quick release mainjoint 115) and the user can separate the frame 145 a from the frame 120a and can separate the frame 145 b from the frame 120 b.

The L-shaped units 850 are not restrictive and could also be representedas a plate with angular type of slots that would be mounted also to handgrip unit 805 as to serve the same purpose as expressed about to pressagainst rollers 860 a-d as to release the mechanism. This plate (notshown) would be intended for structural integrity as the L-shaped units850 a-d in FIG. 8c may not be adequate for pressures involved but serveto demonstrate action.

FIGS. 9a, 9b, 9d, and 9e are block diagrams of various embodiments ofshoulder straps in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Eachof the shoulder straps 900 a, 900 b, 900 c, 900 d, and 900 e mount incentralized areas 905 a, 905 b, 905 c, 905 d, and 905 e respectively,and are each designed to quickly release either by a latch or a cam locksystem. The straps 900 a-900 e can be used instead of the straps 130 aand 130 b (FIG. 1) for the apparatus 100. All of the straps 910 can beremovably attached together and each strap 910 can be adjusted tobasically provide a tight fit against the back support to help the backof the user as well as having better control with the body movements ofthe user, as well as an option to release the straps 910 to permit theuser to disengage the straps 910 in an emergency, especially if deviseevery used for military applications. Some of these drawings show afifth connection point or a submarine belt, which is basically a downfacing belt, and this connection point would not typically be consideredor used for a backpack, since a backpack user is not sitting on a racingseat.

In FIG. 1, the straps 910 a and 910 b can be bolt-in (or otherwiseattached) to the pad 140 by use of the bolts (or connectors) 911 a and911 b, respectively, where the straps 910 a and 910 b are attached inseparate areas in the pad 140. The shoulder trap 900 a may include otherstraps such as, for example, waste straps 910 c and 910 d where bothstraps 910 c and 910 d are attached to the centralized area 905 a, andlower straps 9103 and 910 f. In FIG. 9b , the straps 910 a and 910 b canbe bolt-in (or otherwise attached) to the pad 140 by use of a bolt (orconnector) 912, where the straps 910 a and 910 b are attached in the pad140 by connector 912. The shoulder strap 900 b may also include a bottomstrap 910 g attached to the centralized area 905 b. In FIG. 9C, thestraps 910 a and 910 b are wrapped around the pad 140 in separate areason the pad 140. FIG. 9d is a block diagram of another shoulder strap 900d that wraps around the pad 140. In FIG. 9e , the straps 910 a and 910 bare wrapped around the pad 140 in the same area of the pad 140.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a method 1000 for assembling a multiplemode portable wheeled backpack, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. The blocks in method (and/or steps in the blocks in method)may vary in order or sequence than those shown in the drawing. Forexample, the steps in three blocks may be switched in sequence or order.

In the first block 1005, a backpack section is formed. In the secondblock 1010, an extended trailing section is formed including attachingwheels to the extended trailing section. In the third block 1015, aplurality of couplers are formed, wherein the plurality of couplers areconfigured to removably couple the extended trailing section to thebackpack section. Additional steps in the method may be added aspreviously discussed above.

Other variations and modifications of the above-described embodimentsand methods are possible in light of the teaching discussed herein. Theabove description of illustrated embodiments of the invention, includingwhat is described in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive orto limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. While specificembodiments of, and examples for, the invention are described herein forillustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possiblewithin the scope of the invention, as those skilled in the relevant artwill recognize. These modifications can be made to the invention inlight of the above detailed description. The terms used in the followingclaims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims. Rather, thescope of the invention is to be determined entirely by the followingclaims, which are to be construed in accordance with establisheddoctrines of claim interpretation.

What is claimed is:
 1. A multiple mode portable wheeled backpackcomprising: a backpack section; and an extended trailing section that isremovably coupled by a quick coupler to the backpack section; whereinthe extended trailing section includes a plurality of wheels; whereinthe quick coupler comprises: an outer shell that can be twisted withrespect to a Y axis; wherein the outer shell comprises an inner wall, afirst catch, a second catch, a first spring that connects the firstcatch to the inner wall, and a second spring that connects the secondcatch to the inner wall; a shaft comprising a beveled top portion, alower portion, and an indentation between the beveled top portion andthe lower portion of the shaft; wherein the outer shell comprises abottom for receiving the shaft; wherein the beveled top portion isinserted through the bottom of the outer shell and inserted between thefirst catch and second catch; wherein the first catch and second catchare configured to insert into and to lock into the indentation so thatthe shaft is securely locked with the outer shell; a first L-shapedmember coupled to the inner wall; a second L-shaped member coupled tothe inner wall; a first roller coupled to the first catch; and a secondroller coupled to the second catch; wherein the outer shell isconfigured to be twisted in a direction with respect to the Y axis so asto cause the L-shaped members to also rotate in the direction withrespect to the Y axis and so as to cause the first L-shaped member tocontact the first roller and push back the first catch against the innerwall and against a first force of the first spring and so as to causethe second L-shaped member to contact the second roller and push backthe second catch against the inner wall and against a second force ofthe second spring.
 2. The multiple mode portable wheeled backpack ofclaim 1, wherein the first catch and second catch are removed from theindentation in response to the outer shell being rotated in thedirection with respect to the Y axis.
 3. The multiple mode portablewheeled backpack of claim 2, wherein the shaft is disconnected from theouter shell in response to the first catch and second catch beingremoved from the indentation.
 4. The multiple mode portable wheeledbackpack of claim 1, wherein the outer shell and shaft comprise a heavyduty material.
 5. The multiple mode portable wheeled backpack of claim4, wherein the heavy duty material comprises titanium.
 6. The multiplemode portable wheeled backpack of claim 1, wherein the shaft isattachable to a frame.
 7. The multiple mode portable wheeled backpack ofclaim 1, further comprising: at least one additional L-shaped membercoupled to the inner wall.
 8. A multiple mode portable wheeled backpack,comprising: an extended trailing section including a wheel and brakeassembly unit comprising: a housing comprising a rigid material and atop surface; a wheel inserted between two sides of the housing; an axlerod disposed through the wheel and disposed through the two sides of thehousing; brake rotors attached to the wheel; a resting plate on the topsurface of the housing; a spline shaft on the housing, wherein the shaftincludes a recessed section; a brake system in the housing; a bearingplate on the resting plate; wherein the bearing plate comprises an uppersection, a lower section, and ball bearings between the upper sectionand lower section so that the lower section pivots with respect to theupper section along the ball bearings; wherein the spline shaft isinserted through a hole of the bearing plate; and wherein the brakesystem comprises brake pads and wherein the brake system permits thebrake pads to apply brake pressure to the brake rotors.
 9. The multiplemode portable wheeled backpack of claim 8, wherein the rigid materialcomprises a metal.
 10. The multiple mode portable wheeled backpack ofclaim 8, wherein the rigid material comprises a metal alloy.
 11. Themultiple mode portable wheeled backpack of claim 8, wherein the brakesystem comprises a hydraulic braking system.
 12. The multiple modeportable wheeled backpack of claim 8, further comprising: an outer shellthat can be twisted with respect to a Y axis; wherein the outer shellcomprises an inner wall, a first catch, a second catch, a first springthat connects the first catch to the inner wall, and a second springthat connects the second catch to the inner wall; wherein the splineshaft further comprises a beveled top portion and a lower portion;wherein the recessed section is between the beveled top portion and thelower portion of the spline shaft; wherein the outer shell comprises abottom for receiving the spline shaft; wherein the beveled top portionis inserted through the bottom of the outer shell and inserted betweenthe first catch and second catch; wherein the first catch and secondcatch are configured to insert into and to lock into the recessedsection so that the spline shaft is securely locked with the outershell; a first L-shaped member coupled to the inner wall; a secondL-shaped member coupled to the inner wall; a first roller coupled to thefirst catch; and a second roller coupled to the second catch; whereinthe outer shell is configured to be twisted in a direction with respectto the Y axis so as to cause the L-shaped members to also rotate in thedirection with respect to the Y axis and so as to cause the firstL-shaped member to contact the first roller and push back the firstcatch against the inner wall and against a first force of the firstspring and so as to cause the second L-shaped member to contact thesecond roller and push back the second catch against the inner wall andagainst a second force of the second spring.
 13. The multiple modeportable wheeled backpack of claim 12, wherein the first catch andsecond catch are removed from the indentation in response to the outershell being rotated in the direction with respect to the Y axis.
 14. Themultiple mode portable wheeled backpack of claim 12, wherein the splineshaft is disconnected from the outer shell in response to the firstcatch and second catch being removed from the indentation.
 15. Themultiple mode portable wheeled backpack of claim 12, wherein the outershell and spline shaft comprise a heavy duty material.
 16. The multiplemode portable wheeled backpack of claim 15, wherein the heavy dutymaterial comprises titanium.
 17. The multiple mode portable wheeledbackpack of claim 12, further comprising: at least one additionalL-shaped member coupled to the inner wall.